Easy Tax Deductions

Not a year goes by that the IRS doesn't report the numerous blunders created by taxpayers on their income tax returns. But arguably, an even larger blunder is how most of us don't know about the most common deductions--easy deductions that can save you money.

Charitable Contributions

Though you're probably not going to forget that large donation you made to the World Wildlife Fund, there are many other smaller donations and charities you may have made out of pocket that are write-offs. According to H&R Block, If you recently cleared out your storage space and gave those boxes to the Salvation Army, if you purchased ingredients for an apple pie for the local homeless shelter's Thanksgiving meal or even if you drove your vehicle for charity, you can make deductions.

Moving Expenses

If you have moved more than 50 miles to take your first job, then the costs of moving yourself and your belongings to the new home are deductible. This would include 19 cents per mile if you moved during the first six months of 2008. After June 30, 2008, 27 cents per mile are deductible for using your own car. Tolls and parking fees are deductible, too.

State Tax Paid The Prior Year

If you owed the IRS money for taxes when you filed this year's state tax return, remember that you can include that amount with your deduction for state tax. Do not forget to include state income tax withheld from quarterly estimated payments or paychecks.

Jury Pay Paid To Employer

When you're on jury duty, your employer may pay your full salary or wages while you're away. H&R Block also states that many times, employers will actually ask employees to hand over their jury fees back to the company to make up for this. Meanwhile, the Internal Revenue Service requires you to report these jury fees as taxable income. But what most people don't understand is that you can deduct the amount you have paid to your employer.

Property Tax Deduction For Non-Itemizers

When property taxes are written off, itemized deductions must be made normally. But now, even those homeowners who claim the standard deduction, as more than 60 percent of taxpayers do, can trim their income tax bill using property taxes.

State Sales Tax

Most taxpayers can deduct this item, but it makes the most sense for those residing in a state where there is no income tax. You will need to choose between deducting state and local sales taxes or state and local income taxes. The income tax deduction is the best deal for most people living in states with income tax.

Resources

• Basic Tax Info